Plizio Visual Lab

Lake Dzialandzé

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Lake Dzialandzé is a significant high-altitude lake on Anjouan island, situated on the slopes of Mount Ntingui at an elevation of about 900 meters. As one of the few permanent freshwater reservoirs in the archipelago, it is of vital ecological and hydrological importance. The lake is protected as a Ramsar site, providing a unique habitat for numerous waterbirds and rare amphibians. Surrounded by dense primary forest, the lake helps regulate the water balance for lower-lying regions and secures the drinking water supply for the city of Mutsamudu. The lake's calm surface often reflects the surrounding forested slopes, creating a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere. Biologists value the area for its high concentration of endemic plant species that flourish in the humid highland climate. Treks to the lake follow steep paths that offer insights into Anjouan's traditional agriculture and the untouched nature of the island's interior. Preserving this ecosystem is a priority for local conservation efforts to maintain water quality and biodiversity for future generations.

Location: Comoros
Top sights: Anjouan · Dzidri-I · Dindri
Nearby: Bambao (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	28	28	28	28	27	26	25	25	25	26	27	28
Rain mm	222	162	150	119	58	33	27	21	19	36	50	108

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching Lake Dzialandzé involves navigating steep, winding mountain roads from coastal towns like Mutsamudu, ending with a significant uphill trek. A reliable 4x4 vehicle is often necessary, and hiring a local guide makes finding the trail much easier.

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Best season

The cooler dry season from May to November provides the safest hiking conditions and the clearest views of the crater. During the rainy season, the steep paths become dangerously slippery and thick fog often obscures the landscape completely.

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Terrain & paths

The trek to this volcanic crater lake passes through dense, humid montane forest and steep, muddy slopes that test your stamina. Once at the rim, the paths remain uneven and demand constant attention to footing amidst the lush vegetation.

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What to bring

High-quality hiking boots with aggressive grip are absolute necessities for handling the slippery inclines safely. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, plenty of drinking water, and basic first-aid supplies as facilities are entirely absent.

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Parking

Vehicles are usually parked at the end of the drivable road in the nearest high-altitude village before the trailhead begins. Paying a small fee to locals to keep an eye on your car while you hike is common practice and highly recommended.

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Safety

The steep drop-offs around the crater rim and the possibility of sudden weather changes turning visibility to zero are the primary hazards. It is strongly advised never to hike this trail alone, especially without an experienced local guide.

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Time needed

The entire excursion, factoring in the challenging drive and the strenuous hike up to the crater and back, easily consumes a full day. The actual time spent admiring the lake at the summit typically ranges from one to two hours before descending.